Companion Care Cat Care
The Importance of Feline Veterinary Care
Like all pets, your cat should have a complete physical exam by a veterinarian each year. Not all signs of disease are obvious, so it’s important to have your cat checked regularly to detect any conditions in the early stages to ensure effective and successful treatment.
During your appointment your cat will be weighed, our doctors will perform auscultation of their heart and lungs, and a complete and thorough exam of their eyes, teeth, and body will be done. Depending on the age of your cat, we may also recommend routine blood tests to monitor for kidney or liver disease. We will also make suggestions regarding your pet’s overall wellness, including their diet, and administer any necessary vaccines.
When Should I Bring My Cat to the Vet?
No matter what age, if your cat begins to exhibit unusual behavior it may be one of the first signs of a problem. Some of the more generic signs of illness include a lack of appetite or lethargy, but more obvious signs like vomiting, diarrhea, or upper respiratory symptoms are also common in cats. iIf you suspect your cat has sustained an injury due to trauma or a fight wound of any kind, please call us immediately
Is Parasite Treatment Common for Cats?
In addition to an annual physical exam, cats must be tested for internal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. These parasites can cause extensive damage to the digestive tract, but a routine fecal exam can help up identify whether your cat is infected and what treatment is required.
We will also check for external parasite infections such as fleas, ticks, and ear mites. While far less serious than internal parasites, proper diagnosis and treatment is essential for your cat’s health and well-being.
Finally, it’s important to note that, like dogs, cats and kittens can also be infected with heartworms. These parasites are transmitted by mosquitoes and are much more common in outdoor cats. There is no effective treatment of heartworm infection in cats, so prevention is critical. At your next appointment, we’ll discuss which heartworm prevention products are best for your pet.
My Cat is Stressed at the Vet
We understand that your cat may not be at their best when you come in for an appointment. A car ride, unfamiliar surroundings, and loud noises can make it a stressful experience! However, as uncomfortable as it may be, please don’t let their anxiety prevent you from bringing your pet to the clinic. Please mention this at the time of appointment scheduling as there are options to reduce stress for these routine exams which are essential to ensure your cat lives a long and healthy life.
